Maldonado to test for HRT in Abu Dhabi
08 Nov 2010

2010 GP2 champion Pastor Maldonado will drive for HRT at the Abu Dhabi post-season tests, the team have confirmed. The 25 year-old Venezuelan will get three days in the car during the Pirelli tyre test and the young drivers test in the week following the Yas Marina season finale.

Maldonado, who tested with the Minardi F1 team back in 2004, wrapped up this years GP2 crown after six wins with the Rapax squad. His previous single-seater experience includes stints in the Formula Renault 3.5 Series and the Italian F3000 championship.

Williams confirmed last month that Maldonado will also spend one day testing with them during the young drivers' session in Abu Dhabi, along with 2010 Formula Two champion Dean Stoneman.

Q&A with Pastor MaldonadoQ: What does it mean for you to participate in these F1 tests with HRT?Pastor Maldonado: It will be something special to test with Hispania Racing after being the GP2 champion. It will definitely be an experience and one I am looking forward to very much.

Q: You are the second Venezuelan driver to drive a F1 car. How does this make you feel?PM: It is simply an honour to be only the second Venezuelan driver after Johnny Cecotto, who drove nearly three decades ago. I have much to be grateful for being given this opportunity.

Q: You have gained a lot of experience in lower categories (GP2, GP2 Asia, RWS, F3000 ) How do you think this has helped you to get here and test a F1 car with HRT?PM: My previous experience will be very important, at this test in particular. Having the experience that I do can only help me adapt to a new, more complex category. I know as well that it has only increased my determination to be successful.

Q: What do you expect of these three days of testing with HRT?PM: The three days will be very important. I hope to contribute to the development of the team and to accumulate as much experience as possible.

Q: Describe yourself as a driver PM: I am a fast and technical driver and Im here to win.

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